Hakone-en Aquarium

Must Do Experiences

• Watch the playful Baikal seals and majestic emperor penguins in the spectacular saltwater zone.

• Marvel at the thrilling freshwater exhibits featuring electric eels and piranhas.

• Stroll through the underwater tunnel to observe sharks and giant king crabs gliding above you.

• Enjoy the scenic views of Lake Ashi and Mount Fuji right outside the aquarium grounds.

Hidden Gems

• Look out for the rare Baikal seals, a unique species native to a single Russian lake, which are rarely seen in Japanese aquariums.

• Visit the freshwater zone to spot the elusive Japanese giant salamander, a living fossil hidden among the river rocks.

• Check the feeding schedule upon arrival to catch the lively piranha feeding sessions, which are surprisingly dramatic and often missed by casual visitors.

What Makes it Special

• It holds the title of Japan's highest-altitude marine exhibit at 723 meters above sea level, offering a unique combination of mountain scenery and ocean life.

• The facility houses an impressive 32,000 fish across 450 species, seamlessly blending worldwide ocean and lake ecosystems in one location.

• The inclusion of a dedicated Baikal seal zone provides a rare and intimate wildlife experience you will not find in standard city aquariums.

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

The best time to visit is right at opening at 09:00 to enjoy the exhibits before the midday tour groups arrive, ensuring a quieter and more intimate experience. Autumn and winter offer the clearest views of Mount Fuji from the surrounding Hakone-en park, making it a spectacular season to combine your aquarium visit with outdoor sightseeing.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Turn off your flash and increase your camera's ISO setting to capture clear, glare-free images of the fish through the thick acrylic glass.

• Position yourself low to the ground near the penguin and seal enclosures to get eye-level shots that capture their playful expressions perfectly.

• Use the dark backgrounds of the deep-water tanks to your advantage by focusing on the bright, bioluminescent-like colors of the tropical fish.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

Japanese visitors value a quiet and peaceful atmosphere in public spaces, so please keep your voice down and avoid tapping on the glass to startle the animals. It is also customary to queue neatly for popular viewing spots and feeding times, respecting the personal space of fellow guests.

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• Winter Illumination and Penguin Walks, where the outdoor areas light up and penguins may be seen waddling in the snow during the coldest months.

• Summer Night Aquarium events, which occasionally extend operating hours and feature special blue-light projections for a magical evening experience.

• Golden Week and Obon festival periods feature special interactive feeding shows and educational workshops for children.

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• The floors near the large open-top touch pools and exhibits can occasionally become slippery from water splashes, so wear shoes with good grip.

• Keep a close eye on young children, especially in the dimly lit tunnel areas and near the glass barriers, to prevent accidental bumps or wandering.

• If you or a family member feel dizzy or disoriented in the dark, immersive tunnel sections, step out into the brighter main corridors to rest.